Inspiration
Outdoor Activities for Solo Exploration
Connecticut has many beautiful outdoor spaces for solitary recreation. From golfing to fishing to self-guided art walks, the state is filled with creative ways to get fresh air and enjoy some you-time when you're hanging solo.
Fishing
Fishing is a wonderful way to get outdoors and into the fresh air. Try inland fishing or reel in a catch along Long Island Sound.
Thanks to our friends at the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP), now it’s even easier to get out there, with online resources and a website filled with tips, guides, maps and more. Check out these great ways to go fish in Connecticut.
Golfing
Provided you follow the rules for social distancing, golf can be another way to take in the season. A directory of Connecticut golf courses can be found here – just be sure to check the individual courses' websites to learn about their current operating status.
Before you venture out, we recommend reviewing these guidelines for safe play from the Connecticut State Golf Association. Below are a few places to check out.
Art Walks
Losing yourself in the beauty of art can be a very therapeutic activity – and maybe even more calming when done in the fresh air. Connecticut has some wonderful outdoor art walks that are ideal for solitary enjoyment. Here are some suggested walks.
New London Mural Walk, New London
Take a self-guided walking tour of the six-block Hygienic Art Galleries' mural walk by downloading the map online and discover murals of underwater spacemen, exotic shells, community portraits, mosaics and more.
Lincoln Financial Sculpture Walk, Hartford
Explore an artist’s expression of Abraham Lincoln’s life in this outdoor sculpture walk set along the Connecticut River. For multiple ways to tour, take the Lincoln Financial Sculpture Walk mobile tour or download the map for a self-guided tour.
Studio 80 + Sculpture Grounds, Old Lyme
Stroll through gardens and courtyards admiring over 100 large-scale contemporary sculptures. For a relaxing self-guided tour, the map is available online.
Art Collective Stamford Downtown
Each year Art Collective Stamford Downtown presents a collection of sculptures created by regional artists, placed throughout Stamford downtown. Be on the lookout for the 2021 exhibit!
Hiking
Many people turn to the great outdoors for fresh air, exercise and the renewing power of nature.
For more ideas, check out these social distance-friendly hikes and these secluded hiking destinations in Connecticut. For a full list of state parks click here.
Below are recommendations for hiking that are not typically as crowded.
On the Water
As the weather warms up, outdoor activities on the water are another outlet for solitary recreation. An enjoyable way to get fresh air and keep social distance is kayaking or paddle boarding. Below are a couple of places in Connecticut that are offering either rentals or open for kayak and paddleboard shopping.
Black Hall Outfitters, Westbrook & Old Lyme
To get out on the water, you don't even need to own your own equipment! Black Hall Outfitters in Westbrook is open for kayak rental and taking great measures to ensure the safety of guests. Not only are they disinfecting their equipment each time it is used, but they are also cleaning their offices hourly.
Collinsville Canoe & Kayak, Collinsville
While not open for rentals, Collinsville Canoe & Kayak is taking orders for purchases of kayaks, canoes and gear to be used on your own. They are offering curbside pickup and delivery.
Sea Kayak Connecticut, Westport
Sea Kayak Connecticut connects paddlers of all levels with a tailored on-water experience in beautiful Westport, Connecticut. Offering rentals, tours, classes, and sales of premium paddlesports equipment.
Branford River Paddlesports, Kayaks and Tours, Branford
Discover stand up paddleboards, kayaks and fishing kayak rentals, beginner instructions, SUP yoga and guided tours of the Thimble Islands.
Adventure Mystic, Mystic
Adventure Mystic is not renting, but a variety of stand-up paddle boards and kayaks are available for sale. To keep up to date on daily deals, check Adventure Mystic's Instagram page.
Indian River Marina and Kayak, Clinton
Indian River Marina and Kayak is another great spot to find a wide selection of kayaks and gear to purchase for solitary use.
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